Best cart options for the money?

[Jnye0526]

Hello!

So I'm currently using a Sumiko Blue Point #2 on a Pro-ject RPM 5 and this is by far the best sounding cart I've ever owned. With that said I'm not sure I can (or want to) afford the 450 bucks to replace it every couple years. So I'm wondering if anyone had any opinions on any other carts that are a bit cheaper but don't lose a lot on the sound quality end.

Thank you!

 

[bobins08]

You may be able to have it retipped for much less than the cost of new. Check with Soundsmith, Andy Kim, etc.

 

[911s55]

They are serviceable as bobins08 pointed out. A former member provides this service with good results.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Sumiko-Blu...832361?hash=item2acd68ede9:g:~FIAAOSwo1lcU2xe

 

[twiiii]

If you keep your records clean and in a dust free environment, why do you think you need a new stylus every couple of years? Do you actually listen to records 3 to 6 hours a day. I have a timer on my TT and I go. by the hours music is played.

 

[MRL_Audio]

They are serviceable as bobins08 pointed out. A former member provides this service with good results.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Sumiko-Blu...832361?hash=item2acd68ede9:g:~FIAAOSwo1lcU2xe

I can highly recommend Joseph’s work. Done more than a few for me. Very pleased with every one.

 

[Evonimos]

Lots of options around 400 bucks.
AT-VM95 series gets some nice reviews and has nice value.

However, I think that AT91/3600L remains an unbeatable proposition in terms of value against price.
Anyone that ever tries it is pleasantly surprised.

 

[Jeff449]

It costs $300 for a "retip" through Needle Doctor. But it's really a new replacement.
https://www.needledoctor.com/Sumiko-Blue-Point-No-2-Re-tip
They send you a brand new cartridge. Then you send them your old cartridge in that same packaging.